Welcome to Orange

Experience the magic of Orange in Winter! 

Winter in Orange brings sparkles of light, the diamond-white glitter of frost on tree branches, the dance of sunlight on wine glasses at scenic cellar doors, the embers of a festival bonfire that merge with the glitter of stars. There are sparkles of conversation, too, as visitors congregate around crackling restaurant fires and the warmth and spirit of Orange in the winter takes over the evening.

It brings a true winter experience of tingling cheeks, crisp mornings, and occasional snow. The invigorating weather is perfect for walking, and just as good for cosy meals and evenings spent in warm bars nursing a delicate shiraz.

Venture out to Orange and nestle in with our top Winter recommendations.

Outdoors in Orange: Undulating landscapes around Orange provide quintessential Australian countryside right down to giant gum trees and hopping kangaroos. If you’re about early, frost provides a spectacularly crisp addition to vineyards and pastures.

Get some fresh air with an invigorating mountain walk. Mount Canobolas is especially magical in winter. Hear the muffled crunch of snow underfoot and the tinkling of snow-capped gums in the breeze and look for wombat tracks and burrows. Or try a bushwalk at Federal Falls and be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular views.

In the warmer months, Lake Canobolas is a hive of water sport activity, while in winter it makes for a lovely walking spot for reflections and wildlife spotting, nearby Towac Pinnacle provides a spectacular outlook across the region.

Borenore Karst Conservation Reserve is also scenic; its limestone caves feature stalactites and stalagmites. Verandah Cave is reached on an easy 3.5-kilometre walk and has tranquil pools where if you sit still you might just spot a platypus.

Cyclists can test their mettle on the Orange Village Bicycle Trail, a 360 kilometre 6-day cycling lap of Mount Canobolas. The Orange Villages Bike Trail, fondly known as 'The 360' is Orange360’s brand new cycling trail journeying through picturesque country roads, smooth gravel, terrific views and fabulous hospitality.

If your idea of the outdoors is something more leisurely, then take to one of several golf courses, or simply stroll through one of the many lovely parks in town, such as Orange Botanic Gardens and Cook Park.

Where to stay in Winter: Whatever your particular style or budget, you’ll find accommodation to match in Orange, from a heritage B&B within walking distance of restaurants, to a luxe hotel with on-site dining such as the very contemporary The Remington Orange or cool 1960s’ retro-style hotel, The Oriana. 

A luxurious option right in Orange’s heritage centre is The Byng Street Boutique Hotel, which combines considerable design flair with country comfort. Beyond town, sleep amongst the vines and under a clear night sky at Nashdale Lane Wine Luxury Glamping Cabins, enfolded in vines and orchards.

Those that prefer a self-catering option can head to centrally located Quest Apartments or take your pick from a range of BnB options with Book Orange who manage over 100 individual properties.